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February 20, 2012

An End to the Economic Border War?

Could we see an end to the constant economic showdown that exists between Kansas and Missouri?

One Missouri Rep. sees an end to the strife, at least if he has anything to do with it.

Rep. T. J. Berry, a Kearney Republican, is sponsoring legislation that would prohibit the state from issuing certain economic development tax credits to attract jobs from Kansas to Missouri.

To go into effect, however, Kansas would have to pass similar legislation within two years, and at least a couple Sunflower State lawmakers are willing to consider it. But if Kansas doesn't, Missouri would commit to spending $1.50 on economic incentives for the Kansas City area for every $1 that Kansas spends.

"If we're not going to end it, we need to win." Berry said. "But I would much prefer not to go to war."